Discrimination at Work

If you believe you have been treated unfairly at work because of who you are, you may have experienced unlawful discrimination. Our employment law team provides clear, practical advice to help you understand your rights and take the right next steps.

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Understanding discrimination in the workplace

Workplace discrimination occurs when you are treated less favourably because of a protected characteristic. These include:

Age
Disability
Gender reassignment
Marriage and civil partnership
Pregnancy and maternity
Race
Religion or belief
Sex
Sexual orientation

You do not need two years’ continuous service to bring a discrimination claim. Protection applies from day one of your employment and in some cases, even before employment begins (for example, during recruitment).

There are different forms of discrimination recognised by law:

Direct discrimination – when you are treated unfairly specifically because of a protected characteristic.
Indirect discrimination – when a workplace policy, rule or practice applies to everyone but places you (and others sharing your characteristic) at a disadvantage, and the employer cannot justify it.
Harassment – unwanted conduct related to a protected characteristic that violates your dignity or creates an intimidating, hostile, degrading or offensive environment.
Victimisation – being treated unfairly because you have raised, or supported someone else in raising, a discrimination complaint.

Discrimination cases can be complex and emotionally challenging. Taking early legal advice can make a significant difference.

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How we can help

Clear advice

We will assess your situation and explain whether the treatment you have experienced may amount to unlawful discrimination, in plain and straightforward terms.

Guidance through workplace procedures

If appropriate, we can help you raise a formal grievance and ensure your concerns are clearly and professionally presented.

ACAS Early Conciliation support

Before making a claim to an Employment Tribunal, Early Conciliation is required. We will guide you through the process and advise on potential settlement options.